Hans Heinsheimer

Thursday, October 02, 1952

This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

No music on this recording. Ins and Outs only.

Hans Heinsheimer, a music publisher, describes his profession as the "forgotten man in music." He notes that his work is actually a creative process - it is much, much more than printing music. He talks about the progress made in the distribution of music thanks to technology.

He goes on to talk about the unique aspects of United States copyright laws. In Europe and most other countries the composer immediately gains copyright when they create a work, then keep that right until 50 years after death. In the US a person must formerly apply for copyright and then only keep the rights for a maximum of 56 years. He specifically sites an example of Ravel not applying for copyright, and therefore his work going into the public domain.

He discusses the fast-growing independence of Ameircan music from European influence.

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